4037 Collection Coordinator

POSITION IDENTIFICATION

TITLE Collection Coordinator

CLASSIFICATION NUMBER 4037

GRADE 44

CLASSIFICATION Exempt

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR Controller

MAJOR ADMINISTRATOR Chief Financial Officer

GENERAL FUNCTION

The Collection Coordinator performs professional and managerial work pertaining to the development, implementation, and coordination of procedures related to the collection of amounts due the University from students, faculty, staff, and outside parties. The Collection Coordinator performs accounting functions that require a thorough knowledge of departmental operations and policies and may perform various accounting functions related to the recording and collecting of money due the University. The Collection Coordinator oversees compliance with federal regulations related to Perkins loans.

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Education: A high school diploma or the equivalent is required; a Bachelor's degree with emphasis in Business or a related area is preferred.

Experience: With a high school diploma, at least seven years of work experience in collections is required, which must include one year of accounting experience or completion of six hours of college-level accounting courses. With a Bachelor’s degree, at least five years of work experience in collections is required, which must include one year of accounting experience or completion of six hours of college-level accounting courses. Knowledge of Perkins Federal Loan regulations is helpful, but not required.

Skills: The ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally, is required. A high aptitude for accounting is required. Must be computer proficient and have the ability to learn and use a variety of computer applications. An aptitude in understanding computerized records is required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Manages collection efforts related to University receivable system (both West Plains and Springfield campuses) and Perkins Loan program by understanding the accounting procedures and requirements pertaining to the University's accounts receivable system and Perkins Loan system and how they are integrated with the other University systems, reviewing past due accounts to determine appropriate action, consulting with members of the University community regarding the status of past due accounts, and assuming responsibility for effective follow up on past due accounts.

2. Oversees and coordinates with the Perkins Loan servicing vendor by supervising the cancellation, deferments, and other procedures required for due diligence for future collection of Perkins Loans.

3. Reduces the likelihood that the University will extend non-collectable short-term loans by determining approval/nonapproval of short-term loans based on credit history of students.

4. Promotes a professional image of the University in its debt collection effort by maintaining a good rapport between the University and the students, alumni, and friends and performing all related collection functions in an efficient manner.

5. Prevents institutional liability in the administration of the Perkins Loan program by understanding and following the procedures required in maintaining due diligence for future collection of the Perkins Loan, ensuring that relevant federal regulations are followed, and advising the clerical support staff of changes in policies and procedures regarding the program.

6. Coordinates the maintenance of collection files by following University procedures for the recording and filing of both written and personal communications with debtors regarding their delinquent accounts.

7. Coordinates legal action which might be undertaken as part of the collection process by working with the University’s legal counsel and by understanding the current federal regulations for Perkins Loans.

8. Assists in the preparation of the University’s case for debt collection in small claims court and other collection courts by reviewing the files of debtors and working with the University’s legal counsel.

9. Work with Computer Services to develop an automated collection process for West Plains accounts receivable.

10. Facilitates a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds.

11. Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses as directed by the Controller.

12. Contributes to the overall success of the Office of Financial Services by performing all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

SUPERVISION

The Collector is supervised by the Controller and supervises accounting clerks and students on a regular basis, as well as part-time/temporary employees, when necessary.